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For Immediate Release
April 22, 2009
Contact: R D'Agostino
 717-246-7534

Smucker Faults Anti-business Bent Of State Agency  

Mr. President: 

I am casting a “no” vote on this nomination.  To be clear, this is not a negative reflection on the abilities or the service of Sandi Vito.  She was knowledgeable and forthright in our conversations, and those who have worked with her acknowledge her capabilities. 

Rather, my vote reflects my disagreement with the direction and the policies of the Department she oversees. 

Some of the key officials there appear to have forgotten the “and Industry” part of the Department’s name.  In policy and practice, too much effort seems directed against industry. 

The Worth decision rendered last week represents a system of overregulation that strangles business vitality and confidence in the Commonwealth.  A process that requires an exceptionally harsh penalty on a top-notch employer for minor disputes over job functions is extremely counterproductive to building a stronger economy. 

I want to encourage Sandi Vito to change the direction and emphasis in that Department, so that the climate again becomes one of cooperation, rather than the confrontation and conflict that appear too evident now.